Sean's Cancer Journey: Your Support Matters

Help Me Through My Fight with Cancer

My name is Sean, and this is something I never thought I’d be writing — but life has a way of humbling us.

I’m 54 years old, adopted at age 2, and I’ve spent most of my life working hard with my hands and heart. I’ve worn a lot of hats: construction worker, contractor, fisherman, crabber in Alaska, and bouncer in clubs across the country. For the last decade, though, I’ve worked as a CNA, a caregiver — something I pursued after taking care of my mom when she was fighting ovarian cancer. That experience changed me, and I’ve been proud to help others ever since, especially during COVID, when I worked throughout Oregon and Washington.

A few weeks ago, I was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. In the coming weeks and months, I’ll be going through chemotherapy and radiation. Surgery will follow. I’m doing everything I can to prepare for the road ahead and stay focused on healing — but I know I can’t do it alone.

The reality is this: I won’t be able to work for a while. I’m applying for Oregon’s family leave and disability support, but that will only cover about half of what I need to keep afloat. My basic monthly expenses — mortgage, car payment, insurance, food, and bills — come out to around $3,000.

I’m not someone who asks for help lightly. But right now, I’m asking — not for charity, but for a little support so I can focus on getting through this fight. If you’re able to contribute, I’m deeply grateful. And if you can’t, sharing this with someone who might be able to means just as much.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I’ve stood by a lot of people in their toughest moments — and now, I’m standing in my own. I believe in making it through.

— Sean